Greek doctors explain why vaccination remains crucial in adulthood
Many people associate vaccines exclusively with childhood. However, the truth is that vaccination remains equally important in adulthood. As we grow older, our needs change, risks evolve, and certain infections can become far more serious than we might expect.
Adult vaccines are one of the simplest and most effective preventive tools, protecting not only the individual but also the wider community, CE Report quotes ANA-MPA.
Professor of Therapeutics, Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Pathologist (Therapeutic Clinic, Medical School of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Alexandra Hospital) Theodora Psaltopoulou, biologist Alexandra Stavropoulou, and Professor of Therapeutics–Oncology–Hematology and Director of the Therapeutic Clinic, former rector of NKUA Thanos Dimopoulos, explain that vaccines essentially act as a “lesson” for our immune system. Without causing the disease itself, they teach it how to recognize and fight the microorganisms responsible for it. This is because, in most cases, a vaccine contains a weakened or inactive form of a virus or bacterium, or an important part of it. Thus, when the body later encounters the actual pathogen, it is already prepared.
Adult vaccines
One of the most characteristic examples is the Tdap vaccine, which provides triple protection against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). Tetanus can enter the body through wounds, cuts, or scratches and cause severe muscle spasms, stiffness, and the so-called “lockjaw,” meaning inability to open the mouth or swallow. A single Tdap vaccination followed by a Td booster every 10 years is sufficient to maintain protection. For pregnant women, a booster is recommended between the 27th and 36th week of each pregnancy.
Chickenpox is another infection often considered a “childhood issue,” but in adults it can be much more dangerous. Those who have not had it remain at risk, even through simple contact with an infected person. In adults, the disease is associated with a higher risk of complications, hospitalization, and death. Chickenpox pneumonia in pregnant women can be particularly severe and is considered a medical emergency. The vaccine is given in two doses, 4–8 weeks apart for individuals aged 13 and older.
On the other hand, the virus that causes chickenpox can later reappear in life as shingles (herpes zoster). This condition is more common after the age of 60 and can cause a painful rash with blisters, eye damage, and long-term nerve pain. The Shingrix vaccine is available for its prevention, given in two doses, and is recommended for people aged 50 and over, as well as immunocompromised adults aged 18 and above.
The HPV vaccine (human papillomavirus) is also very important. Certain HPV strains are linked to most cervical cancers in women and some throat cancers in men. One of the available vaccines also protects against most genital warts. Although it can be administered from age 9, young adults—especially those who have not been sexually active—can still benefit. Some adults aged 27 to 45 may also choose to be vaccinated if they were not previously immunized.
For certain adult groups, protection against meningitis is particularly important. Young people living in military barracks or student dormitories, travelers to specific regions, and individuals with weakened immune systems may require vaccination against meningococcal disease. This is a potentially life-threatening illness that can cause severe consequences such as brain damage or hearing loss.
Depending on lifestyle and exposure, hepatitis A and B vaccines are also significant. Hepatitis A can be transmitted through contaminated food or water. Hepatitis B spreads through blood or bodily fluids, such as during unprotected sexual contact, sharing personal items, or using shared needles. Hepatitis B in particular can lead to serious liver damage or even death.
Some vaccines are not only useful but also required for entry into certain countries. Travelers should also be aware of routine immunizations and those recommended depending on their destination. Ideally, vaccination planning should be done 4–6 weeks before travel.
There are also vaccines relevant to almost everyone. The annual flu vaccine remains a key preventive measure, while vaccines exist for RSV, especially for older adults, people with health conditions, and pregnant women to protect infants. COVID-19 vaccines continue to be an important preventive tool, with different types stimulating the immune system in different ways. Protection against pneumococcus is also crucial, as it can cause pneumonia, bloodstream infections, and meningitis.
Finally, the MMR vaccine protects against three serious diseases: measles, mumps, and rubella. Many adults are already immune through infection or vaccination, but those without immunity remain vulnerable. Measles can cause severe complications, mumps in adults may lead to meningitis or painful swelling of the testicles or ovaries, while rubella is particularly dangerous during pregnancy, potentially causing miscarriage, premature birth, or severe congenital abnormalities.
